17. Outplanting

Survival and growth after outplanting are the ultimate tests of nursery plant quality.
After the nursery plants are established in the field, they will provide many benefits to
the environment by improving soil quality, enhancing biodiversity, inhibiting establishment
of invasive plants, sequestering carbon, restoring native plant populations,
providing windbreaks, creating wildlife habitat, and preventing soil erosion. In addition,
established native and traditional plants can provide food, fuel, medicines,
crafts, animal fodder, beautification, and many other benefits. Careful planning
well in advance is important with attention to the eight steps of the Target Plant
Concept. In addition, care with site preparation, onsite plant handling, selection
of planting spots, proper planting techniques, support and protection of seedlings,
and quality control during the outplanting process all help ensure the plants will
have the best chance to survive.